DMZ turns to peace tourism with new fall festival across Korea's borderlands

The Korean government is launching the first DMZ Peace Festa this fall to introduce the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) as a place for nature, local culture and relaxation, rather than focusing only on its history of division. The festival is organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the Korea Tourism Organization and local governments.

The festival will take place in Ganghwa County on September 12 and Cheorwon County on September 26. Organizers hope to connect tourism programs that have been developed separately in different areas near the DMZ.

In Ganghwa, visitors can enjoy sunrise meditation and yoga, nature walks along the DMZ fence, and a nonalcoholic cocktail-making class inspired by displaced residents. September will also be designated as DMZ Visit Month, with special activities such as a mission-based visit to Gyodong Market.

In Cheorwon, visitors can enjoy street performances, media art, a disco event and a backpacking experience near Soisan. There will also be a motorcycle tour visiting important security sites in the area.

The government hopes the festival will help change the image of the DMZ from a symbol of division and conflict into a place connected with nature, community and healing. Visitors can find schedules and registration information through the Visit Korea website.

Edited using generative AI tools. 
Source:https://www.koreatimes.co.kr/lifestyle/people-events/20260824/dmz-turns-to-peace-tourism-with-new-fall-festival-across-koreas-borderlands?shem=dsdf,sharefoc,agadiscoversdl,,sh/x/discover/m1/4

Comprehension

What is the DMZ Peace Festa?
When and where will the festival take place?
What activities can visitors enjoy in Ganghwa?
What activities are planned in Cheorwon?
What image of the DMZ does the government want to promote?

Discussion

Would you like to visit the DMZ Peace Festa? Why or why not?
What kind of activities would you enjoy at a festival like this?
Do you think tourism can help people understand a region's history?
Should places connected to war and conflict also be promoted as tourist destinations?
Why do you think nature can help people feel peaceful?
Would you prefer a relaxing festival or an exciting festival? Why?
What activities could make the DMZ more attractive to international tourists?
Can tourism help improve local communities? How?

Vocabulary

Borderland – an area near the border between two countries.
Festival – a special event with activities, performances, or celebrations.
Reflection – quiet thinking about something.
Division – the separation of people or groups.
Inaugural – happening for the first time.
Displaced – forced to leave one's home.
Meditation – a practice of relaxing and focusing the mind.
Healing – the process of becoming healthy or peaceful again.
Backdrop – the place or scenery behind an event.
Transform – to change something into something different.